To see normality as we used to know it would be so reassuring

MY HOPES FOR 2022: Councillor Willie Mackay, Wick and East Caithness, and Provost of Wick

Highland councillor Willie Mackay hopes 2022 can bring significant reductions in waiting lists for some types of hospital treatment.

He is also looking forward to a time when it is safe to allow community activities to go ahead with no requirement for masks or social distancing.

Councillor Mackay represents Wick and East Caithness on Highland Council and has the title of Provost of Wick.

"Firstly there is no doubt we would all like to see an end to the global pandemic that has turned the world upside down and living in unprecedented times over the past nearly two years," he said.

"To see normality as we used to know it would be so reassuring for everyone. Renewing people’s confidence to get out and about enjoying activities and events with no face masks and no social distancing would be my obvious greatest hope for 2022.

"Next I would hope to see a reduction in the huge waiting lists for medical operations, planned surgery and patients awaiting treatment as our dedicated NHS staff clear the backlog of appointments.

"Thirdly, I would like to see more care packages and the recruitment of more carers to support the elderly who wish to be in their own homes, giving them the appropriate level of care required with everyday tasks.

"Demographics are changing fast – there are now more people aged 65 and over than under-15s. My hope is for greater care for our elderly at home, and more of it."

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